A 200 year old Oak tree was cut down last week to prevent any

further damage being caused to neighbouring buildings by its root system.

The huge tree was being cut down by a team of four, hopefully causing minimal disruption to the residents of Eastmoor Nursing Home, Rhydding Road, Ilkley.

The tree could not be cut down from the base but had to be

lowered gradually in stages due to its proximity to the buildings.

John Walker, 33, from Chevin Tree Surgeons, climbed the tree to remove small branches and leaves with a chainsaw.

He was protected from falling by a system of pulleys and ropes similar to the ones used by rock climbers.

The operation had to be planned meticulously as any sudden wind could have had disastrous consequences for any nearby buildings.

The wood will be used for making furniture or chopped up for firewood.